Given the current state of our economy, it is common for Americans to have credit problems. Whether there is a little or a lot of fixing to be done, the following tips can be used to get your credit repaired in no time.

The first thing to do is to check your credit report and obtain your credit score. A number of websites offer these services, and some sites provide reports at no charge under certain circumstances. It can be done once per year for free.

By asking your creditors what payment options are available, you may discover ways to save funds that would otherwise have been spent on interest charges and late fees. If a company is more lenient about late bills, focus on paying the bills issued by companies with less lenient policies.

Go through your credit report and mark any negative information you see. Everybody makes mistakes and credit scores are not 100% guaranteed right. That's why you should check for mistakes and unfair charges. Find out what caused these bad marks on your report.

Take the initiative to learn your rights and responsibilities regarding debt collection. For instance, you won't be imprisoned if you can't pay a bill, and threats made by collection agencies are not legal. Every state has a different set of laws, but, for the most part, threatening or verbally abusing someone is illegal. Be assertive, and don't allow collection agencies to disrespect you or deny your rights.

Focus on 30 percent or less as the ideal target for credit card balances. Low balances make you look like less of a credit risk and ensures that you will be able to make the payments in a timely manner.

Collection agencies are relentless once they begin calling you. Avoiding their calls only makes it worse, especially if they get a hold of your work number. Take the calls, talk to them, see what you can work out and even build a relationship with the people who call you. This can help you in the long term. If you make the effort to discuss your personal situation and explain that you are making a sincere effort to pay the bill, they may be able to restructure the payment or create an individualized agreement with you to reduce the payment or the balance of the debt. Not only that, but making a good faith effort toward paying off your debt can help reduce or eliminate extra fees and interest.

These suggestions will help you stay in good standings with creditors. Use the advice offered here to start to repair your credit.